Leading the Future of Geodesy: Director of the Office of National Geodetic Survey

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is currently seeking a highly qualified individual to serve as the Director of the Office of National Geodetic Survey (NGS). As one of the premier scientific agencies in the United States, NOAA provides the foundational data that drives the nation's economy and keeps our infrastructure safe. This position offers a unique opportunity to lead the development of the National Spatial Reference System (NSRS), which serves as the backbone for latitude, longitude, and elevation data across the country.

Job Responsibilities

As the Director of the NGS, the selected individual will be responsible for:

Providing high-level leadership for all NGS programs, including geodetic research and photogrammetry.
Ensuring the accuracy and availability of the NSRS.
Providing authoritative advice to NOAA leadership on policy and program development.
Representing the agency on national and international committees, such as the Federal Geodetic Control Subcommittee.
Bridging the gap between scientific research and practical applications for public safety and economic development.

Requirements

Success in this role requires a robust academic foundation and extensive executive experience. Key requirements include:

A degree in geodesy or 30 semester hours in fields including mathematics, physics, astronomy, or geophysics.
Proven executive leadership experience.
Ability to obtain a Top Secret SCI clearance.
A two-page resume highlighting evidence for all ECQs and PTQs.

Salary and Comparison Table

This Senior Executive Service (SES) position carries a highly competitive compensation package commensurate with its level of responsibility.

Attribute	Detail
Salary Range	$151,661 – $228,000
Grade	ES (Senior Executive Service)
Security Level	Top Secret / Sensitive Compartmented Information
Location	Silver Spring, Maryland

Benefits

Employees enjoy extensive federal benefits including health insurance, retirement options, and generous paid time off. The role also provides unparalleled opportunities to lead interdisciplinary teams in a high-stakes, science-focused environment.

Application Tips

The most important aspect of your application is the two-page resume. Because the agency strictly enforces this limit, focus on high-impact accomplishments that clearly demonstrate your ability to drive organizational results and solve complex geodetic challenges. Do not use the USAJOBS Resume Builder; upload a tailored document that directly addresses the ECQs and PTQs.

Serving as the Director of the Office of National Geodetic Survey is a career-defining opportunity for a leader passionate about earth sciences and the American public infrastructure. If you possess the technical expertise and executive drive, apply today to lead NOAA’s vital geodetic initiatives.

Why This Director Office Of National Geodetic Survey Job Matters

Shape the future of the nation’s spatial reference systems as the Director of the Office of National Geodetic Survey at NOAA.

Director Office Of National Geodetic Survey Job Overview

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is seeking a visionary leader to serve as the Director of the Office of National Geodetic Survey (NGS). This high-impact Senior Executive Service (SES) role is based in Silver Spring, Maryland, and involves guiding the scientific and technical direction of national programs related to geodesy, photogrammetry, and the National Spatial Reference System (NSRS). The selected candidate will provide critical expertise to support economic prosperity, public safety, and environmental stewardship across the United States.

Requirements for Director Office Of National Geodetic Survey

Must be a U.S. citizen or national.
Must be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance with access to Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI).
Must submit a resume not exceeding two pages, addressing both ECQs and PTQs without separate narrative attachments.
Males born after December 31, 1959, must be registered with the Selective Service.
Completion of a one-year probationary period for new SES appointees.
Must file a Public Financial Disclosure Report (OGE-278e) upon appointment and annually thereafter.
Must undergo pre-employment and periodic drug screening.

Preferred Qualifications for Director Office Of National Geodetic Survey

Extensive practical experience in state-of-the-art geodetic science and its application to remote sensing, oceanography, and astronomy.
Proven track record in managing complex geodetic and engineering research programs.
Successful completion of an OPM-approved SES Candidate Development Program (SESCDP).
Experience in leading organizational change and fostering high-performance cultures.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
✓Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) benefits.
✓Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching contributions.
✓Flexible spending accounts and long-term care insurance options.
✓Generous leave policies, including paid federal holidays, annual leave, and sick leave.
✓Professional development and leadership training opportunities.

💡 How to Apply Director Office Of National Geodetic Survey Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Director Office Of National Geodetic Survey Job

Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or fewer, ensuring all Executive Core Qualifications (ECQs) and Professional/Technical Qualifications (PTQs) are integrated into the work history.
Log into your USAJOBS account.
Complete the online application questionnaire.
Upload required documentation, including transcripts and current SF-50 if applicable.
Submit the final application package before the deadline.

💡 General Tips

Strictly adhere to the two-page resume limit; documents exceeding this will be disqualified.
Do not use the USAJOBS Resume Builder; use a custom document.
Embed your leadership and technical accomplishments directly into the two-page document rather than writing separate narratives.
Ensure your transcripts demonstrate the required educational background in mathematics, physics, and geodetic sciences.
Double-check your submission status in your USAJOBS portal to confirm successful receipt.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a remote position?

No, this position is located in Silver Spring, Maryland. While telework may be an option, the position is not designated as fully remote.

How should I address the ECQs and PTQs?

The agency requires that you integrate your accomplishments addressing these qualifications directly into your two-page resume. Separate narrative statements will not be reviewed.

What happens if my resume is over two pages?

Resumes exceeding the two-page limit will be automatically disqualified from consideration.

What is the primary focus of the NGS Director?

The primary focus is providing scientific leadership to maintain the standards of excellence for the National Spatial Reference System and ensuring its utility for national priorities.

Is veterans' preference applicable?

No, veterans' preference is not applicable to Senior Executive Service (SES) positions.

Job from National Oceanic And Atmospheric Administration

NOAA is an agency dedicated to science and service. From climate monitoring and weather forecasting to coastal management and marine commerce, NOAA’s work impacts roughly one-third of the U.S. gross domestic product. The NGS, specifically, provides the specialized knowledge required to understand Earth's orientation and movement, ensuring that federal and private entities can rely on accurate mapping and positioning data.